Hyundai to Launch Anti-Theft 'Mobile Clinics' Across US to Provide Free Software Upgrades for Vehicles Targeted by Thieves

Amid continuing cases of its vehicles being stolen due to a technique popularized on Tiktok and other social media platforms, Hyundai has announced that it will set up "mobile clinics" that will provide free anti-theft software upgrades for its vehicles.

According to the Associated Press, the mobile clinics will be held in five US locations: New York City; Chicago; Minneapolis; St. Paul, Minnesota; and Rochester, New York. It will run for two to three days, on or close to weekends, between October 28 to November 18.

Hyundai's official website said owners may now schedule an appointment for the mobile clinics and check their vehicle's eligibility for the software upgrade by inputting their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

The automaker also stated that the affected customers have already been notified "through a combination of direct mail, phone, targeted digital advertising, and social media."

Hyundai added that the software upgrade "should take less than an hour," which will be installed and completed by on-site trained mobile service technicians.

According to Hyundai's website, the schedule for the mobile clinics at GNYADA's Center for Automotive Education & Training in Whitestone, New York City, will be on October 28 and 29 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The AP reported that Hyundai listed the affected vehicles as the 2018-2022 Accent, the 2011-2022 Elantra, the 2013-2020 Elantra GT, the 2013-2014 Genesis Coupe, the 2018-2022 Kona, the 2020-2021 Palisade, the 2013-2022 Santa Fe, the 2013-2018 Santa Fe Sport, the 2019 Santa Fe XL, the 2011-2019 Sonata, the 2011-2022 Tucson, the 2012-2017 and 2019-2021 Veloster, and the 2020-2021 Venue.

The 'Kia Challenge'

The "mobile clinics" are Hyundai's direct response to the "persistent thefts targeting certain Hyundai vehicles without push-button ignitions and immobilizing anti-theft devices."

The AP reported that these incidents have been linked to viral videos posted on TikTok and other social media platforms that teach people how to start some car models in the US without engine immobilizers, which is a standard feature on most cars since the 90s that prevented the engine from starting unless the key is present.

This viral social media challenge teaches netizens to exploit a security vulnerability in several car models using only USB cables and a screwdriver. The challenge is reportedly called the "Kia Challenge," which has encouraged various teenagers to participate.

Other Actions of Hyundai, Aside From the 'Mobile Clinics'

Hyundai and Kia have previously faced multiple lawsuits concerning these viral videos that increased car theft incidents.

The AP reported that before several cities, including New York City, filed lawsuits against them, the carmakers had been working with US authorities since November 2022 to provide over 26,000 steering wheel locks to 77 law enforcement agencies in 12 states.

Hyundai and Kia also released a software update related to their vehicles' security systems last February. The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration previously said the update will allow "the theft alarm software logic to extend the length of the alarm sound from 30 seconds to one minute and requires the key to be in the ignition switch to turn the vehicle on."

Hyundai also said it will be "making steering wheel locks available to affected customers through a reimbursement program, or through distribution via hundreds of law enforcement agencies across the country."